Introduction:
Johann Gottfried Herder, a German philosopher, played a significant role in shaping the understanding of German culture. He believed that true German culture could be discovered through various elements such as folk songs, folk poetry, folk dances, the common people (Das Volk), and the vernacular language.

Explanation:
Folk songs, folk poetry, and folk dances:
- According to Herder, folk songs, folk poetry, and folk dances reflect the collective spirit and traditions of a particular culture.
- These forms of expression are passed down through generations and embody the values, beliefs, and experiences of a community.
- By studying and analyzing these cultural forms, one can gain insights into the essence of a culture.
- Herder believed that these folk traditions were the purest expressions of a people's identity, as they were created and preserved by the common people themselves.

The common people (Das Volk):
- Herder emphasized the importance of understanding a culture through the lens of the common people, or "Das Volk."
- He argued that true cultural identity lies within the everyday lives and experiences of ordinary individuals, rather than in the works of a select few intellectuals or elites.
- By studying the customs, beliefs, and practices of the common people, one can gain a deeper understanding of the values and traditions that shape a culture.
- Herder believed that the common people were the custodians of a nation's authentic culture and that their contributions should be respected and celebrated.

Vernacular language:
- Herder also emphasized the significance of the vernacular language in understanding a culture.
- He believed that language was not just a means of communication but also a carrier of a people's unique worldview, history, and cultural heritage.
- By studying the language used by the common people, one can gain insights into their thoughts, emotions, and ways of life.
- Herder advocated for the preservation and promotion of vernacular languages, as he saw them as an integral part of a nation's cultural identity.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Johann Gottfried Herder claimed that true German culture could be discovered through various elements such as folk songs, folk poetry, folk dances, the common people (Das Volk), and the vernacular language. By studying these aspects, one can gain a deeper understanding of a culture's essence, values, and traditions. Herder's ideas continue to shape cultural studies and the appreciation of folk traditions in Germany and beyond.